got into fight in nj.punched guy and knocked him out.found

Resolved Question:

got into fight in nj.punched guy and knocked him out.found guilty in criminalcourt for second degree agg assualt.5 years probation,fines etc.now its time for civil court,the lawyer from the guy i hit wants me to cop out and pay 135,000 for damages that occured from the punch.(medical exp)I think the total of all expences is 178,000.my question is should I go to trial or accept the 135,000 with monthly payments of 175.00 with a yearly review to increase it 25.00,if my salary goes up.the judge thats mediating the situation says I can go to trial if found guilty things can get worst.

If you were found guilty in the criminal case, a civil suit is much more difficult to defend because of the prevailing conviction.

Obviously, I don't know anything about the facts of the case, the bills incurred (whether they are all reasonable and whether they are all related to the injuries sustained from your actions) or any defense you could have for self-defense, etc.

However, I would recommend that you listen to the suggestions of the mediator as he/she likely has a good gauge on all of these issues and can give you a very good idea of where this case may end up if you proceed to trial.

Also, if you settle this case, it is possible that you could have the settlement discharged in bankruptcy. However, if a judgment is entered against you, it is less likely to be dischargable.